Things to Consider when Buying a Machete

When you hear the word “ machete ”, what comes to your mind? Maybe some scene from a horror movie? Or some people in the jungle cutting through bushes, trees, and vines? For decades, this is how these knives have been conceived for its uses. But nowadays, these blades have other uses as well. These are considered multi-tools that are an invaluable purchase.

So if you’re considering to buy a machete, whether it’s for survival situations, practical purposes or to show off, knowing what is available is important.

So let’s keep going to see what you need to consider while you purchase a machete.

Blade Style

For most people, the most important characteristic of a machete is its blade style or shape. Shapes vary based on the use of it. In rural parts of the world, these are used quite frequently. Therefore, the style varies and sometimes even overlap. Each blade differs depending on your location. The Rawit style is known as Kukri while the Golok is a called Sable.

However, the style is a subjective matter. People buy machetes based on what they have seen or used in the past. As the styles of machetes have never been standardized, one style is easily melded to another.

But here are some styles you can consider:

Bush Machete

An all-purpose machete, with an evenly weighted and stout blade. This can be carried around fitted in a sheath. This serves well in green vegetation as well as a utility tool.

Bolo Machete

Bolo machete is the workhorse of all machetes. It’s somewhat of a cross between a knife & an axe. It’s heavily weighted at the tip. This makes it great for chopping thick vegetation.

Kukri Machete

Three parts make up this blade. Pointed tip for penetration, wider midsection for chopping and narrow part at the handle for carving and whittling.

Length of Machete & Blade

Machetes usually range from 25cm to 70cm. An average machete is around 45cm in length. A smaller machete means it’ll have less reach. But these are more portable and have thicker blades. On the other hand, longer blades are hard to transport but they clear a bigger area quite fast. It generates a more centrifugal force that generates more power.

The composition of Machete Blade

One main difference if different types of machetes are the material of the blade. Mostly, machete blade is made from carbon steel or stainless steel. There are other hybrid versions as well made from high carbon stainless steel. These combine the characteristics of both carbon steel and stainless steel.

Carbon Steel

• Harder than stainless steel
• Better retention of edge sharpness
• Has to be oiled regularly to prevent rust
• Harder to sharpen

Stainless Steel

• Stain resistant
• Doesn’t require a lot of maintenance
• Edge is easily sharpened
• Softer than carbon steel
• Edge retention isn’t good

High Carbon Stainless Steel

• Corrosion resistant
• Strength of durability
• Requires regular maintenance
• Not easy to sharpen

Tang

This part extends to the blades grip, connected to the handle and blade together. Majority of them are made with full tang blades. The ones without a full tang have the weight distributed in the favor of the blade’s end rather than the handle. This is most common in smaller machetes.

Handle Material

The blade is a crucial part, but one must consider the handle as well. Here are some of the popular handle material used in machetes’ handles.

Wood

Wood grip offers superior comfort and grip. It’s lightweight and strong. When taken care of, these handles last for a long time. However, if these come in constant contact with moisture, they will crack.

Polymer

Polymer handle takes less maintenance and is most affordable. But these handles can be slippery. When used on a long-term basis, there may even be discoloration.

Rubber

Rubber offers a great grip. The texture and pattern improve comfort and add to the aesthetics of a machete. It absorbs some of the vibrations created when you use a machete. But it tears over time. However, that does take a while to happen.

When it comes to buying a machete, knowledge is the key. So if you’re ready to buy a machete then going through this information will have helped you quite a bit. Any blade you choose has to be considered carefully.